Perhaps you might think that land in Italy is easy to love. Let me point out its insanely petulant drivers, its long wait lines to view works of art, its preoccupation with cell phones and pointy shoes, and in some areas, its tendency to rob you of your pocket cash. Like every other place, there are a few drawbacks, to be sure. But this place, this land, yes!, the loving comes quickly and without much courting required. A sort of “you had me at Hello” sort of passion for the land. Here in the areas known as Valdobbiadene, the yellow clay sinks more than six feet deep. Forty miles north of Venice, there is a land where
more than 180 Prosecco producers “discover” their rich resources
through the making of this princess of beverages.

Year after year, the tiny glera grape. The grape itself is gentle,
soft and very fruity. This flowery fruit flourishes particularly in a vineyard called Cartidte. Recently, a member of the Zardetto family personally demonstrated the spirit of this tiny grape. Bottling only 5000 bottles a year from this vineyard, the result of a spicy citrus sparkling wine with herb notes made my toes tap a bit.
Oh, to discover it indeed! There is a certain pleasure you must employ when drinking this sparkling liquid. Even if the sky buckets out rain, or your traveling partner exudes irritation at your incessant need to window shop, despite heartache or bowel irritation or a global economy slump, Prosecco brings a sense of hope.

I am pouring my own prosecco!

Prosecco only originates from this small area of Italy, using a method known as the Charmat method. Rather than force a secondary fermentation in individual bottles (like Champagne) this method uses large stainless steel autoclaves that are computerized to keep the winder under a specific amount of pressure. The Charmat method maintains the intention to retain the “fresh fruit” undertone that can often be overwhelmed by yeast.
The town of Conegliano boats more than 20 lovely vintners and the prestige of founding the first royal wine school of Italy. Every August 1st male inhabitants drink a glass in the morning for Good Luck. The ritual must be working because their product truly sparkles. Americans are keen on this secret, which is why Zardetto ships 40
percent overseas to our market. Plus, no wine degree is required for savoring it! It is a non-vintage wine, meaning, it is produced with the specific intention to be consumed within a year of release.
Processo people folks know what’s good. And they share it with a willing pride. However be aware that Germany taxes authentic Prosecco but not its cousin, frizzante. Check the label to make sure you savor the true belle of the ball.